Jeremiah 16:14

Yet behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when they will no longer say, 'As surely as the LORD lives, who brought the Israelites up out of the land of Egypt.'

Study Bible

Yet behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD
This phrase introduces a prophetic declaration, a common feature in the writings of the prophets. It signals a future event that is certain to occur, as it is spoken by the LORD Himself. The use of "behold" emphasizes the importance and certainty of the prophecy. This phrase is often used in the Old Testament to introduce significant changes or divine interventions (e.g., Isaiah 7:14, Jeremiah 23:5).

when they will no longer say
This indicates a shift in the cultural and religious expressions of the people. The phrase suggests that a current saying or tradition will be replaced by something new. In the context of Israel, sayings often reflected their collective memory and identity, particularly those related to God's past acts of deliverance.

‘As surely as the LORD lives, who brought the Israelites up out of the land of Egypt.’
This was a common oath or expression of faith among the Israelites, rooted in the foundational event of the Exodus. The Exodus was central to Israel's identity, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. It was frequently referenced throughout the Old Testament (e.g., Exodus 20:2, Deuteronomy 5:6) and served as a reminder of God's covenant with His people. The prophecy suggests that a future event will surpass even the significance of the Exodus, pointing to a new act of divine deliverance. This can be seen as a foreshadowing of the New Covenant and the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who is often seen as a new Moses leading His people to spiritual freedom (Hebrews 3:3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, known for his messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through Jeremiah, promising a future change in how His deliverance is remembered.

3. Israelites
The descendants of Jacob, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt, a foundational event in their history.

4. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved before God delivered them through Moses.

5. The Exodus
The pivotal event of deliverance from Egypt, which defined Israel's identity and relationship with God.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Deliverance
The prophecy in Jeremiah 16:14 highlights God's ongoing commitment to deliver His people, reminding us of His faithfulness throughout history.

A New Exodus
Just as God delivered Israel from Egypt, He promises a future deliverance that will redefine their understanding of His power and care.

Hope for the Future
This verse encourages believers to look forward to God's future acts of salvation, trusting that He will continue to work in powerful ways.

Redefining Identity
The shift from the Exodus to a new deliverance signifies a transformation in how God's people understand their identity and relationship with Him.

Living in Expectation
Believers are called to live with an expectation of God's future work, allowing His promises to shape their present faith and actions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of a new deliverance in Jeremiah 16:14 challenge or encourage your understanding of God's faithfulness?

2. In what ways can the concept of a "new Exodus" apply to personal or communal experiences of deliverance today?

3. How does the anticipation of future acts of God influence your daily life and spiritual practices?

4. What are some modern "Egypts" from which you or your community seek deliverance, and how can this passage offer hope?

5. How can you actively participate in God's ongoing work of deliverance in the world around you, inspired by the promises in Jeremiah 16:14?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Describes the original Passover and the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt, which Jeremiah references as a past act of God's salvation.

Jeremiah 23:7-8
Similar prophecy where God promises a new deliverance that will surpass the Exodus, emphasizing a future hope.

Isaiah 43:18-19
Encourages looking forward to new things God will do, rather than dwelling on past events.

Ezekiel 36:24-28
Speaks of God gathering His people from all nations, a future deliverance that echoes Jeremiah's prophecy.